Jewish Memorial

About

The Jewish Memorial on Michelsberg in Wiesbaden commemorates the 1,547 Jewish citizens murdered during the Holocaust. Opened to the public on January 27, 2011, the memorial stands on the site of the former synagogue destroyed during Kristallnacht in 1938. Designed by landscape architect Barbara Willeke, the memorial features a large grey wall engraved with the names of the victims, offering a permanent and visible tribute to those who perished. The site also includes glass panels depicting the original synagogue and symbolic elements that evoke memory and loss. This dignified space was created following an urban planning competition initiated by the city council in 2006, aiming to restore historical awareness and provide a place of reflection. The memorial is part of Wiesbaden’s broader commitment to remembrance, which includes Stolpersteine throughout the city. It serves as a powerful reminder of the city’s Jewish heritage and the importance of confronting history with honesty and compassion.

Wiesbaden Germany

Location

The Jewish Memorial in Wiesbaden, also known as the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Wiesbaden, is located on Michelsberg, the historic site of the former Wiesbaden synagogue that was destroyed in 1938. This poignant memorial was opened to the public in 2011 and consists of two main areas divided by the street layout, symbolizing the void left by the destruction of the synagogue. The memorial features a circumferential band of names listing 1,549 Jewish victims from Wiesbaden who were murdered during the Shoah, along with an information board, touchscreen, and augmented reality displays to educate visitors about the synagogue’s history and the lives of those lost. Nearby landmarks include the town hall, the pedestrian zone, and cultural institutions in central Wiesbaden, making the memorial a deeply reflective and accessible urban space within the vibrant city center. Public transportation options serve this area well, ensuring easy access for visitors wishing to engage with this significant historical site.